Congratulations to the entire Universal team on this incredible achievement and vision, innovation and many years of hard work that made it possible!
Major developments like this create a powerful halo effect across our destination. Visitors drawn to the new park don't just stop there-they stay in our hotels and resorts, dine in our restaurants, shop in our stores and explore our neighborhoods, arts and attractions. As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats!

Visit Orlando team members attend The TODAY Show's special third-hour segment at the Central Park Main Stage on Park Avenue in Winter Park.

Recognizing the national spotlight on Orlando, Visit Orlando strategically partnered with NBC's TODAY Show to showcase the broader story of our destination. With TODAY already in town to cover the Epic Universe opening, we worked with their team to produce a dedicated third-hour segment focused on activities to enjoy in addition to our theme parks.

Misty Goff, Visit Orlando Senior Director of Marketing, and Kathy Brown, Visit Orlando Vice President of Marketing, with Michael James Scott, the longest-running actor to play the iconic role of the Genie in "Aladdin" on Broadway, at The TODAY Show's special third-hour segment in Winter Park.

The segment aired on May 22 and was filmed in Winter Park, one of our most unique and picturesque neighborhoods. It featured:

·      Award-winning chefs from Four Flamingos, Se7en Bites and Mills Market

·      Ecotourism experiences at Rock Springs with Get Up and Go Kayaking and Showcase of Citrus

·      Arts and culture, with Broadway star and Orlando native Michael James Scott, best known for playing the Genie in Broadway's Aladdin

·      Orlando's pro sports scene with the Orlando Magic and Orlando Pride

·      Local business spotlight, from a local clothing brand to Corkcicle and Wondermade marshmallows-giving them national exposure that could drive immediate sales and long-term visibility

L to R: The TODAY Show anchor Dylan Dreyer; Visit Orlando President & CEO Casandra Matej

I also had the chance to meet TODAY anchor Dylan Dreyer at Boxi Park in Lake Nona and share what makes that space, and our destination, Unbelievably Real.
Overall, this partnership was a great example of how we're leveraging big moments to tell a bigger story about Orlando and drive awareness and visitation for the economic and community benefit.